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Chinhtown 

AS I SAW IT. 



NEW YORK : 

A. w. Knox, 56-58 Grand Strei 



1895. 






Copyrighted, 1895, 

— BY— 

A. W. Knox, Publisher. 



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CHINATOWN AS I SAW IT. *^ ^V/ 




A.VTXG been invited to make a nocturnal tour 
through the Chinese section of Xew York City, 
in company with several Christian philanthro- 
pists, to gain 'an insight of what, to the large majority, 
is a mysterious and depraved terra incognito, 1 availed 
myself of the opportunity it gave me to obtain an ac- 
curate knowledge of the actual state of affairs there. 
The object lessons, presented during the hour or so spent 
in this investigation, enlarges on my memory as does the 
picture drawn on the slide when thrown upon the screen. 

Our facilities for securing correct information were 
unparalleled, and what we saw and learned was abso- 
lutely honest and unbiassed. 

The usual method adopted, is to visit these localities- 
in company with a detective or someone holding legal 
authority. These are well known by the subjects sought 
after, and naturally, knowing that they have no kindly 
sympathy, the parties would be placed in antagonistic 
defense and their hearts locked and barred. 



Oar contact was peculiarly opportune, and at one 
v-disarmed them of suspicion, dispelled reserve and opene 
tiearts that brought to light, candid, honest and thri 
ling disclosures. 

For once we were under the custody of a woman, an 
for the time being as the instrument and servant c 
Christ she carried our lives in her hand. 

A most devoted woman is this female missionary, wh 
has given her life to this work, and in spite of th 
herculean task before her, has accomplished result 
which struck me with dumb amazement. 

Sustained by the irresistable power of the Holy Ghost 
she has gained intimate access to the inner life; and th 
appreciation of the Christ-love glowing in her heart fo 
them, has induced, not only candor, but intense recipro 
• cal love on the part of those she seeks so earnestly t<| 
benefit, and her influence and power is simply marvelous 

.Caesar's bulletin was " Veni, Vidi, Vici, " but ir 1 
rmaking invasion of this stronghold of depravity, wV 
:>may truthfully say, Veni, Vidi, but there we are com 
pelled to halt. The Vici can be accomplished by Divine* 
power alone. Gideon is" powerless, but "The sword oi 
■the Lord and of Gideon" is irresistable. 

I am fully aware that, on that night, she only raise 
■_a corner of the vail which hangs before this awful 
condition of affairs. 



- 



What we did see and hear was appalling, but she could 
have taken us to scenes far exceeding them in degradation 
and vice. 

But let us go forward, piloted by our devoted guide : 

My companions being experienced and apt, both in 
appeal and persuasion, my vocation resolved itself into 
silent observation, by eye and ear — allowing no cir- 
cumstance— no, not a flush or change of expression to 
pass unnoticed and studying closely, not only actions 
but words ; also, endeavoring to read the motives 
prompting them, even though they be constrained by 
passion or hidden by long training in crime. 

Will the reader follow closely each statement in inter- 
view, and in succeeding paragraphs will be found 
comments and deductions therefrom. 

" Follow me/' said our missionary guide. " Have you 
any matches ? " And up narrow stairs we followed on — 
Indian file — striking matches to light our steps. 

The approaching vistas were a mystery, and we little 
imagined what would burst upon our vision — we were 
constrained to anticipate squalor, dirt and exhibitions 
of deepest depravity that wonld make us sick at heart. 

Our guide knocked at the door, and on response, in 
we filed to view a scene that dazed us with amazement. 

On entry, we were met by a finely built young woman 
of superior bearing and carriage indicative of the fact 



that she did not emanate from the lower walks of life, 
but had had the advantage of good education. 

Though somewhat embarrassed by our presence, her 
reception and conversation was respectful — I may say, 
lady like. 

She answered questions put to her, naturally somewhat 
reluctantly, but, modestly and without a sign of arro- 
gance or vulgarity, and throughout the interview there 
was nothing to offend the most fastidious sensibilities. 

Her style of dress was neat and refined as any in more 
reputable walks of life, and the apartment, instead of 
what we anticipated, was as tidy, clean and tasty a little 
home as could be wished for under more auspicious 
conditions. 

On enquiry, we found that she had come from a good 
family, that she had been well brought up, and that she 
has a mother in good circumstances. 

But, sad to state, this young woman is a victim to the 
accursed opium habit, and is living in concubinage with 
a Chinaman. On this latter relationship, particular en- 
quiry was made, resulting in emphatic declaration of 
kindness and consideration on his part, which could but 
induce reciprocal attachment. 

To earnest prayers and pleadings she listened respect- 
fully, but whether they impressed her, we had little indi- 
cation, as she held her words and feelings under control. 



We parted from her, heart sick that one who could 
have heeu an ornament to any household, should be en- 
slaved by such a soul destroying habit and buried alive 
in such sad surroundings. 

The scene changes as we visit another of these lament- 
able abodes, and as we enter the room I will endeavor to 
describe the surroundings. Never have I seen more im- 
maculately clean or tidy a room on either side of the 
Atlantic; the furniture was not expensive, but showed 
emphatically the industry of the housekeeper — my eye 
scanned every item carefully. The mirror was bright, 
without a bloom on it. The table was covered with a 
neat cloth, and the lamp was clean and bright. In the 
alcove, I could see the full sized bed properly made, and 
the linen was white as driven snow. New England 
ladies, I have been told, are fastidious housekeepers, but 
my impression is, that, as far as these rooms are concern- 
ed, they could not exceed them in order, neatness and 
cleanliness. They would find here a close competitor. 
I have enlarged on this point, and shall make my com- 
ments later on. 

A sad, sad spectacle then presented itself ! Sitting at 
the table was a young girl of exceptional and classic 
beauty. Her features were regular and beautiful — a 
fitting model for the chisel of a Ohantrey or a Powers. 
As I sat opposite her, I scanned her countenance 



most intently during the interview, to divine the dis- 
position unexpressed, or the working of repressed emo- 
tions. As I watched the variations of expression, I noted 
that rigidity indicative of sad schooling. 

She was not communicative, but the information had 
to be drawn from her by skilful persuasion, but what 
we did learn made hearts ache. 

This beautiful girl is now only eighteen — ruined as a 
child, she became a mother, and then as an outcast enter- 
ed into Mongolian concubinage. 

The endeavor was made to learn somewhat of her 
family origin and training, and what was our surprise to 
gain the confession that she has a mother, who, she said, 
is a Presbyterian, and a church member in good stand- 
ing. This was made the means of appeal, and tenderly 
was depicted a Christian mother's tearful prayers. 

She had hitherto been stolid, but this allusion to her 
mother's love was too much for her — her head bowed on 
her hands and she burst into a flood of tears. While this 
interview was proceeding a knock came to the door. The 
lady missionary went calmly to the door; " John, you 
cannot come in yet." He left, leaving our guide in 
power in his own apartment. This will show the self- 
possession, or rather the Christ-possessing-power this 
noble woman has. It seemed a vivid repetition of the 
words of the disciples to the Master, "Lord, even the 



devils are subject unto us in Thy name." 

We know not the verity of this girl's statement, but we 
do know that the just retribution of an all avenging God 
will be meeted out to the prime factor in her downfall. 

We pass on from this scene, with hearts made sadder 
and sympathy and pity deepty stirred. 

But again the curtain is raised for another living 
picture, and we enter a room to find four women engaged 
in dress making. This room had the aspect of the dwell- 
ing of an ordinary mechanic, and the women were in- 
dustriously making their clothes. One of the party was- 
sitting at the machine, sewing. She told us that she was- 
married to a Chinaman, with whom she is satisfied; and 
gets good treatment. Another of the women acknow- 
ledged that she is living with a Chinaman. Since we saw 
her, the tidings has reached us that, influenced by the 
advice and pleadings, she has quit the evil life and its 
surroundings and rejoined her family. Thank God foiv 
that spark of hope. 

Another of the company, we were delighted to find^ 
was only a friend or relative, and that she was under 
religious influence; and her power would be felt in this, 
family circle. 

Our missionary guide pointed to us a photograph on 
the wall — of a young girl, a brand plucked .from the 
burning, and now a jewel in Christ's Crown — taken but 



a week before she died. 

Parting from this family circle, after admonishing 
and praying with them, we went into Doyers Street 
Mission, and though nearly midnight, the evangelistic 
work was in full blast. 

One of the young women followed us thither, and my 
friend secured the opportunity to drive the matter 
/nearer home to her heart. 

It is not apposite to give details of the incidents at 
v the meeting; they were thrilling, but did not relate to 
the subject I am now considering. 

The meeting being closed, our worthy missionary 
parted from us, and turned homeward. 

Though past midnight, we were transported into a 
neighboring Chinese restaurant to sample a dish, the 
name of which I will not venture to pronounce. In 
our party, was a lady from the mission — a lion-hearted 
woman — whose influence, if not equal to our missionary, 
is a close parallel in her own sphere; she was followed 
by a pleasant and agreeable young woman, who clung to 
her with fond attachment. Respecting her, I shall al- 
lude later on. At the adjoining table, sat a young girl 
pale faced, hollow eyed, and smoking cigarettes — evi- 
dently fast hastening to eternity. 

In the small hours of the morning we wended our way 
.homeward — wiser, thoughtful and soul-stirred men. 



Xow, reproducing these vivid scenes in my memory, 
allow me to deduce some conclusions therefrom. 

On the start, let me say, that I anticipate the retort 
that I have not depicted the condition in anything like 
its actual abomination. My friend, I did not set out to 
describe a "Chamber of Horrors/' I could surfeit the 
most sensual if I wanted to, but my object is far di- 
verse. If you wanted to study drunkenness, would you 
go to the alcoholic ward at Belle vue Hospital and wrestle 
with a man violent with the ''Jim-Jams?" I guess not! 

I have known men on whom liquor held dominion, and 
whose money went like water through a sieve. Possess- 
ing reasoning power, they saw whither they were drift- 
ing and put the foot down firm and quit its use. To-da}^, 
the family have a devoted and self-denying father, and 
the employer a reliable, steady man. 

In like manner, I do not seek my subject from the 
most besotted by this soul-destroying drug or those given 
over to utter beastiality. I prefer the milder types, 
where the mental faculties are not wholly stunted or 
obliterated, and where, in the intervals of sanity, influ- 
ence can be exerted on the intellect, reason and the finer 
sensibilities. The physician prefers to treat disease in 
the incipient stage, and not when the fever has raged its 
worst, and the patient is beyond hope. 

I leave others to depict the superlative horrors — the 



positive degree is positive enough and base enough for 
my purpose, God knows ! If these are mild cases, then, 
Great God, Human effort wilts and contemplation almost 
despairs of success. 

I have already alluded to the young woman we met in 
the restaurant. The lion-hearted lady, who had joined 
our party, has wrestled with her for four years — yes — for 
four weary years has she kept up the fight. 

She has drawn her closer to her, evoking the tender- 
est affection— she has opened to her the social freedom of 
her home, and she visits her daily. Rut in spite of all 
this. I may almost say superhuman effort, the damnable 
passion holds its sway, and she cannot — no she cannot 
release herself from its thraldom. Gnat God in Heaven, 
what is to be done, what can be done? 

Now let me ask a few questions, and answer them : — 

Who is to blame for this lamentable state of affairs? 

Is it just to lay the blame and obloquy on the head 
of the Mongolian? I challenge refutation of my state- 
ment that the cases are rare in which " John Chinaman" 
is prime factor in this iniquity. He simply takes the 
white man's leavings, and picks up the white man's 
squeezed and discarded orange. Whatever abhorrance 
we may have for the life he leads it is our duty to fix 
the blame on the right culprit. 

Is the girl wholly to Mame? 



Whatever evil tendency she may have, the instances 
are rare in which she will not jealously defend her hon- 
or, and it is only by vile machinations, by seductive 
promises or inducements that she yields that honor, or 
else it is robbed from her by force. Where then shall we 
search for the right criminal to bring him to the bar of 
righteous condemnation? 

It is far from my object to impugn the purity of the 
franchise, but this I will say — It is my belief, that not 
only in America, but in every other so-called civilized 
country, there is scarcely one of these villains who is not 
a voter, and dares to march boldly to the polls as a mock 
patriot. I make this statement for a specific object, for 
such hypocritical scoundrels will dare to legislate against 
the Chinaman or the Indian. 

Let us do a little figuring — say that only the mini- 
mum of one per cent of the voters are thus impugnable, 
the result would be appalling, even in the total votes cast 
in New York City alone; and such a host of social 
pirates and propagators of beastiality are thus to be 
palmed on society, as honest, pure men, and patriotic 
citizens. Would that God would raise up in this day a 
Nathan, the prophet, who would identify and challenge 
these social cancers — "Thou art the man." 

Now a step further: What elements have we to contend 
with in the existing condition of affairs ? 



I. — Chronic Laziness. This feature may not have 
been observed by the casual reader, but by careful en- 
quiry and observation I am led to this conclusion. I 
have alluded emphatically to the scrupulous neatness 
and cleanliness of the rooms we visited. If the reader 
imagines that this is attributable to the industry of the 
woman, let him forthwith dismiss such error from his 
mind. " John " stands in constant fear that he may lose 
his hold on his victim, and that any day she may quit his 
company. He,, therefore, allows her to live a life of — I 
may say — luxurious idleness. It is he, and he alone, who 
keeps the home — if it may be styled a home — neat and 
clean. Such rneritricious praise is due to him alone — she 
is the idle toy of his lust. He waits on her, hand and 
foot, and satisfies all her desires. 

77. — The kind and attentive treatment she receives 
from the Chinaman, as compared with the treatment the 
"unfortunate" receives under more, so-called, civilized 
conditions. We have only to ask those noble women, the 
S. A. Rescue Lasses, to learn the life these most unhap- 
py creatures lead, say in the " Tenderloin " in New York, 
•or the Kegent Street section of the City of London. 

]S T o difference can be found wherever we look. In ad- 
dition to the curse and disgrace they bear, they are 
•chased around, bullied and harried on, to provide the 
wages of corrupt avarice of those who live sumptuous- 



ly on their sinful life. Is it to be surprised at, that 
possessing neither moral nor religious restraint, having 
suffered the tyrannical persecution of -'civilized" sur- 
roundings, she flees such brutality, and submits to Mon- 
golian concubinage, which brings with it an easy life, 
and the satisfaction of every desire ? 

III. — The damning power and fascination of the opium 
habit. I have already alluded to the young woman I 
met in the restaurant, who has been for four years wrest- 
ling with the demon that holds such a power over her. 
Once yield to its influence, and its power is, humanly 
speaking, insurmountable. Scarcely a girl comes into 
companionship and influence of a Chinaman, but she is 
drawn into the snare of this habit, and once engaged in, 
it is too sadly apparent what a hold it asserts on soul and 
body. Now, in conclusion, let me summarize and focal- 
ize the whole matter. 

What remedy and action can be adopted to counteract 
and correct this appalling evil ? 

Most assuredly, not by invasion of the general public, 
either prompted by philanthropy or idle curiosity. 

Finding themselves under continual espionage, will 
either irritate them, and induce antagonistic violence, 
and thus frustrate the beneficial influence now being ex- 
erted over them — or else, being made a show of, will ' 
flatter their vanity and perpetuate the evil. 



This acute but chronic moral disease needs most skil- 
ful treatment, and rare indeed is it to find the man or 
woman competent to grappb with it. God raises up 
one and another in His good time, and to them should 
be left this important work — the church and philanthro- 
pists upholding them in it. 

In i Sam. xxx, 24, is recorded an important decision, 
made by David, that those who guarded the " stuff ^ 
merited reward equally with those who went to the front 
to fight. My province is not aggressive warfare, but I 
can guard and look after the "stuff," and "stuff" is 
absolutely necessary to enable the warfare to be ag- 
gressive. This paper is the spontaneous result of im- 
pressions made by my visit, and prompted or suggested 
by no one. 

Though no intimation has been made to me, I know 
fully the condition in which matters now stand. Mrs. 
Booth's Kescue Home is full to repletion, and Mrs. 
Whittemore's Home is equally congested, and to-day 
there is not a single home to which a plucked brand 
could be sent. 

My impression is, that girls of this class require speci- 
fic surroundings, and to be removed utterly from this 
festering hot-bed of vice. A home in the country, where 
God's nature replaces man's corruption, and where the 
sight of the pure Water-lily, the modest and retiring 



Violet, or the innocent though suggestive Forget-me-not 
may excite thoughts far divergent from those inspired 
by their present environment. 

In spite of the demoralization to which they have sunk, 
I affirm emphatically, that these girls are human, and, 
though hardened by vice, are still amenable to finer sen- 
timents. Love of elegance and beauty is shown by their 
inordinate love of dress and ornaments; but they can be 
led to admire a pure lily — more glorious than Solomon 
in all his glory. 

Many a gentleman, or lady expends a vast sum for a 
ball, dinner, or other social or public entertainment. 

My views are far from plebian, and I maintain that it 
is justidable to uphold the station of life in which we are 
placed. But I appeal to such a man of influence, when 
you retire to rest, and lay your head upon your pillow, 
committing to God the care of your body for the night, 
would it not give a thrill of joy to know that, by your 
benificence, a home was at that moment in active opera- 
tion, in which many a poor girl would look to you as her 
benefactor and rescuer ? And how would God think 
about it ? Should my words awaken suggestion, or this 
humble effort be the nucleus to create such an oasis, my 
heart would rejoice, and I would thank God for thus 
crowning my labor with success. 

Only a faint allusion can be made in this brief paper 



to the work before ns. We have a very peculiar condi- 
tion of things to contend with — ordinary methods would 
be futile and powerless. Special and peculiar means 
must be resorted to, if we look for success. 

The wail from Macedonia, that appealed so forcefully 
to the Apostle Paul, was not more distinct than the 
ceaseless and pitiable cry : " Won't you come down to 
Chinatown to help us?" This earnest plaint is ad- 
dressed not to a general public — they don't want them — 
but to certain Christian workers, whom they know have 
their interests at heart, and whom they feel they can 
trust, and to whom they can look for deliverance. 

— Pilgrim. 



-4juF interest be excited by the perusal of 
this paper, and more definite informa- 
tion be sought, I would refer the reader to 
the Pastor, Camp Memorial Church, Chrystie 
Street, New York City. His experience en- 
ables him to form accurate judgment, and what 
information he gives will be reliable, and funds 
entrusted to him for this work will be wisely 
administered. 



I 



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